London Cloudbow

Last updated on September 16, 2023

Exploring the Enigmatic London Cloudbow

Have you ever looked up at the sky and noticed something unusual? Perhaps you've seen a rainbow arching across the horizon after a rainstorm. But what about a cloudbow? Specifically, a pink-hued cloudbow that curves upwards like a mystical arc in the London sky? This captivating atmospheric phenomenon is a rare and fleeting sight that is easily missed if you're not paying close attention.

Unlike rainbows, which are formed by sunlight refracting through raindrops, cloudbows are created by smaller water droplets suspended in moisture-laden air. These droplets can be found within clouds or even in the form of virga, which are wispy streaks of precipitation that evaporate before reaching the ground. It is this unique combination of atmospheric conditions that gives birth to the mesmerizing cloudbow.

The appearance of a cloudbow can vary depending on the size of the water droplets involved. Some cloudbows are broad and almost white, while others are narrower and exhibit a range of colors. The pink hue observed in the London cloudbow is a result of the early morning sunlight interacting with the droplets, causing them to scatter and reflect light in a way that tinges the bow with a delicate rosy tint.

It's important to note that cloudbows are not as well-known or commonly observed as rainbows. Their fleeting nature and elusive presence make them a true atmospheric rarity. To catch a glimpse of a cloudbow, one must be in the right place at the right time, with favorable atmospheric conditions aligning perfectly.

If you're lucky enough to witness a cloudbow, take a moment to appreciate its ethereal beauty. Its ephemeral existence serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of our atmosphere and the wonders it can produce. Whether it's a pink cloudbow in London or a different variation elsewhere in the world, these atmospheric marvels are a testament to the intricate interplay between light, water, and air.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, cloudbows also hold scientific significance. Studying these phenomena can provide valuable insights into the properties and behavior of water droplets within clouds. By understanding how these droplets interact with sunlight and form cloudbows, scientists can deepen their understanding of atmospheric processes and improve weather forecasting models.

As we continue to unravel the mysteries of the atmosphere, it's important to cherish the moments when nature reveals its hidden treasures. The enigmatic cloudbow serves as a gentle reminder that even in the hustle and bustle of urban life, there is still room for awe and wonder. So, the next time you find yourself gazing at the sky, keep an eye out for the elusive cloudbow – a fleeting masterpiece that adds a touch of magic to our everyday lives.

Pink Cloud Bow

A London street morning of 13th January. Photograph by Anna-Rose Kirk. The sun is low, the sky blue. Not the venue of rainbows yet a pink hued cloudbow curves upwards with perhaps even a supernumerary at its lower left.

Image ©Anna-Rose Kirk, shown with permission

Cloudbows are rare, fugitive, easily missed.

They are born not of large raindrops but smaller ones in moisture laden air. Sometimes virga form them too.

Cloudbows vary from broad and almost white to narrower ones more coloured depending on droplet size. Early morning sunlight has tinted this one pink.

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Reference Atmospheric Optics

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